Disaster Food Assistance: What You Need to Know About D-SNAP

When natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods hit, many people lose their homes, food, and access to resources. The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) created the D-SNAP program to help people who need food after a major disaster.

D-SNAP provides temporary food assistance to those affected by these emergencies, allowing them to buy essential groceries with an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card.

Through partnerships with states, territories, and tribal or non-profit groups, FNS helps individuals and families get food assistance quickly in declared disaster areas. If the President declares a significant disaster, the USDA can activate D-SNAP in those areas.

What is D-SNAP and Who Qualifies?

D-SNAP (Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a program designed to provide food assistance to those affected by severe emergencies or natural disasters.

If you have been impacted by a disaster and are facing food shortages, you might qualify for D-SNAP, even if you weren’t eligible for regular SNAP benefits.

You may be eligible if:

• You lost your job due to the disaster.
• Your home or property was damaged.
• You lost food due to power outages.
• You have large expenses related to evacuation or repairs.

Once approved, you’ll receive funds on a D-SNAP EBT card, which you can use at approved stores to buy essential groceries covered by SNAP.

Those already receiving SNAP benefits might qualify for additional support through D-SNAP if they’re in an impacted area.

D-SNAP Application Phases in Georgia for Hurricane Helene

In Georgia, D-SNAP is available to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene. The program is divided into four phases, with each phase covering specific counties. Be sure to apply within the designated phase dates for your county.

Phase Details:

• Phase 1 & 2: Have already ended.
• Phase 3: November 7–14, 2024, excluding November 10 and November 11, for Burke, Columbia, Glascock, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Screven, Taliaferro, Warren, and Washington counties.
• Phase 4: November 18–23, 2024, for Appling, Bulloch, Candler, Dodge, Emanuel, Evans, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Tattnall, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Wayne, and Wheeler counties.

How to Apply for D-SNAP

To apply for D-SNAP:

1. Check Phase Dates: Ensure your county is within the active phase dates.
2. Apply Online or In Person: Applications can be submitted online or at designated local offices in disaster-affected areas.
3. Gather Documentation: Bring identification and any proof of income loss, property damage, or other disaster-related expenses if possible.
4. Receive an EBT Card: If approved, you will receive an EBT card to purchase food at authorized locations.

The D-SNAP program is a vital resource for individuals and families impacted by natural disasters, providing quick access to food during recovery.

If you live in a declared disaster area, check if you qualify for D-SNAP assistance and apply during your county’s designated phase. D-SNAP is here to support you when you need it most, helping you get back on your feet after a disaster.